Small but responsible

An initiative to develop a code for businesses working with nanotechnologies has been launched by the Royal Society, Insight Investment,  the Nanotechnology Industries Association and the Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network.

The aim of the code will be to establish a set of internationally relevant principles which outline good practice for businesses involved in all aspects of these emerging technologies and their applications including research, development, manufacturing, distribution and retailing.

It will be developed by a working group made up of representatives from the code's four founding partners and a range of organisations including business and non-governmental organisations along with scientists and social scientists.

Confirmed members of the working group so far include - amongst others -  the chemical company BASF, Unilever, Smith & Nephew, the consumer group Which?, development NGO Practical Action and Amicus.

'Nanotechnologies are generating a huge amount of excitement, with the industry growing extremely fast. But business is operating in a climate of technical, social and commercial uncertainty concerning these relatively new technologies. In light of this we are aiming to develop a code, with extensive stakeholder input, that will indicate best practice for companies across the value chain from nanomaterials producers to consumer product retailers,' said Lord Selborne, chair of the working group.